Meera Vijayann
Washington, D.C.
As seen in:
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Medium,
Forbes,
The Guardian,
Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC),
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Health
and
Interview
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Actually, I have! My grandfather had a typewriter in his office and when I was little, I'd type on it all the time.
What does it mean to be a journalist?
To me, a journalist is more than an individual who exposes wrongdoing and holds power to account, a journalist guides society towards change.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
I use Microsoft Word, Adobe Indesign, Adobe Photoshop, and a number of social media platforms; Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, and Facebook.
What's your favorite social network?
I love Twitter - there's a lot that I love about the platform (and hate about it).
Who do you wish followed you?
Roxane Gay - She's one of my favourite writers.
Why did you become a journalist?
I've always wanted to write--and report--stories that I wanted to read and didn't read in the press.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
My high school in India didn't have a newspaper. However, it did have a magazine and I frequently published fiction in its annual issue.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I'm working on an essay on the complexities of leaving a faith. The essay explores the intersection of feminism and faith.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Unfortunately, I do not receive pitches (I'm not an editor). However, I am open to tips and ideas for stories.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
I once received a pitch to cover a trade union protest in Canada. Every single journalist I knew received the same pitch. It was amusing.
What's your favorite drink?
A cup of Orange Pekoe with a spot of milk.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
I'm likely to be at the park or coffee shop with my notebook--writing and reflecting on my life.
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
The most common misconception is that the Gender beat only covers 'women's problems'.
Would you like to take the Muck Rack Interview?
Create a Muck Rack profile.